Journal of Experimental Agriculture International

Horticultural production in peri-urban areas supports livelihoods and supplies fresh produce, but herbicide handling near surface waters may create occupational and environmental exposure. This study characterised herbicide-use practices among horticulturists in four villages of the Azaguié basin, southern Ivory Coast. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and direct field observations. The surveyed farmers were predominantly young men; 61.7% were aged 18–40 years, 47.5% had no formal schooling, and 68.6% reported no training in herbicide use. All surveyed farmers reported using herbicides. Glyphosate was used by 100%, while 2,4-D and nicosulfuron were reported by 63.0% and 28.7%, respectively. No farmer reported calibrating spraying equipment before application, and 67.1% determined application amounts empirically rather than solely following manufacturer recommendations. Personal protective equipment use was very limited, with 97.0% reporting no use. Empty containers were abandoned in the agricultural environment by 45.7% of farmers, and 75.7% washed sprayers in nearby watercourses. Principal component analysis identified three farmer profiles differentiated mainly by training, technical practices, and proximity of plots to watercourses. The findings indicate that limited training, empirical application practices, inadequate waste management, and close contact between production areas and surface waters are important features of herbicide use in the study area. Practical training and measures adapted to riparian production settings may help reduce exposure.